Many of us begin a brand new year by making resolutions which may be harder to keep than make (and believe me...I know!) One of the most popular resolutions is the breaking of bad habits. This might include: smoking, drinking alcohol, lack of exercise and over-eating, among others.
Webster defines self-control as “control of one’s feelings, desires or actions by one’s own will; the power of controlling one’s external reactions, emotions, etc.; equanimity.” Roget lists as synonyms: restraint, self-discipline, willpower, mettle, resolve, composure and reserved.
Self-control is something which can be taught, learned, acquired and practiced. The Apostle Paul taught Felix the Roman Governor concerning the principles of self-control (Acts 24:25). Peter urged the Christians in Asia to supply or provide self-control in addition to their faith (2 Peter 1:6). The Hebrew Christians were disciplined by Paul because they had not learned through the exercise of their senses to recognize good from evil (Hebrews 5:13-14). Each of these examples demonstrates that self control is acquired through a rigorous spiritual education. We acquire it as we become more and more familiar with God’s Word.
As suggested by the last text, joined with this instruction is a proper application. As we become skillful in the Word of God our “senses” are able to differentiate between that which is good for us and that which is evil. We are able to make the determinations that Joseph, Daniel and Jesus made. Paul, having acquired this discernment said he buffeted, or disciplined his body daily and brought it in subjection to the will of his mind (I Corinthians 9:25). We must grow in wisdom to the point that we can apply the Word to the various situations we encounter daily.
Another means whereby we acquire mastery over the body is through planning. Paul urged that we make no provisions for the flesh (Romans 13:14). We must learn to avoid those things that tempt us to give in to our desires. Job made a covenant with his eyes (Job 31:1). Paul purposed he would not eat and drink (I Corinthians 8:13; Romans 14:21). The wise man said we should avoid wine altogether (Proverbs 23:31).
Don’t be like the drunken cowboy who after taking the pledge continued to tie his horse up in front of the saloon on Saturday. Before long, he was back in the saloon.
We acquire self-control through moderation (1 Corinthians 9:25). It is possible to get too much of a good thing (Proverbs 25:16). Learning to deny yourself or restrain your participation in even harmless and beneficial things brings a discipline to life that is helpful (Proverbs 20:13; 23:1-3; Philippians 4:12).
Finally, self-control is acquired only through a constant vigilance (I Corinthians 9:27). Paul “buffeted” his body; literally, he “beat down” the longings of the flesh. There is a constant conflict between the spiritual mind and the flesh (Galatians 5:16-17). Long term success is determined by the daily victories that result in a spiritual walk (Luke 9:23).
Scripture: Proverbs 25:28; Proverbs 16:9; 1 Corinthians 10:13; Galatians 5:22-23; 2 Peter 1:5-7; 1 Peter 4:7; 2 Timothy 1:7; Philippians 4:13
Prayer: Almighty God, make me conscious of my weaknesses, and make me ashamed of my indulgences. Give me a victory over self; and may I consider more what I put in my life. May I be eager for that which will inspire me for greater aspirations. Amen.
Wishing all of you a blessed new year!
~Eve
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